Reverend
Cumberlidge makes no secret of the fact that he wants our Church
more open and
more family orientated in it's approach to the community, and so,
for this year's Harvest Festival celebrations, a challenge was issued
asking Children and young people: boys, girls, teenagers, to come
and decorate a window sill within the Church – This could
be on your own, with a sister, brother, friend or parent.

"Francesca"
finishes her window display with just a little bit
of help from Mum.

Bob
the Builder giving thanks for the harvest in Sunflower Valley

June,
Joanne and Janet amonst the decor

On Sunday
16th October in a full church, imaginatively decorated by mothers,
grandmothers and their children. A congregation of about 125 adults
and children greatly enjoyed the Vicar’s address with the
children participating, on the theme of hunger, food distribution
and the need to share. The lesson was jointly read by local farmer
Jonathan Rabbitts and his 10 year old son George.

There were tractors
and animals together with beautiful displays of flowers, autumn
foliage, vegetables, conkers, blackberries and home made jam.

The
offertory of £252 has been divided between the Royal Agricultural
Benevolent Institution – which helps those in need in the
farming community and the Disasters Emergency Committee –
DEC Asia Quake Appeal. After the service the congregation enjoyed
a splendid buffet lunch in the Seymour Chapel, prepared by Sue
Briant, Diana Pilling and Janet Easterling.

The
PCC are aiming to further develop links between the church and
young families in the village; with this in mind The Reverend
Cumberlidge has introduced the Family Service concept.